Archive for July 15th, 2013
Adornment
A friend who loves jewelry and works in the industry recently remarked, “Everyone should adorn themselves with beauty.” Her statement got me to thinking about adornment.
Defined, adornment is something that beautifies, enhances status, symbolizes affiliation and displays wealth. I easily imagine early humans adorning themselves with colored mud, plant juices, bones and feathers.
With the ability to smelt metals, cut and polish gemstones, came a new era of adorning. Many cultures kept their great wealth in the form of jewelry, and resplendent collections survive today. However, until mass production, wearing jewelry was reserved for those who could afford such indulgences.
Clever marketing created a demand for wedding and engagement rings. Jackie O. legitimized wearing costume jewelry and it’s popularity quickly became a major feature in making bejeweled adornment available to the masses.
Modern human’s wear adornments reflecting a range of social, religious, cultural and economic situations. From medals of victory and honor to the accoutrement of punk and bling, most of us put our adornments on for personal enjoyment and public display.
I am inspired to get out of my rut, dig into my Jewelry Box and adorn myself with some lovely pieces that have not seen the light of day for some time. Won’t you join me?